Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto Linked to Missing Sabungeros.

Missing Sabungeros Case: Dondon Patidongan Speaks Out

JULY 03,2025

MANILA, Philippines – In a bombshell revelation that has reignited national attention on the missing sabungeros case, one of the accused, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, has named controversial businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang as the alleged mastermind behind the abductions. In a televised interview with Emil Sumangil on GMA’s 24 Oras, Patidongan also claimed that actress Gretchen Barretto was aware of the incidents.

“Atong Ang Gave the Orders,” Says Ex-Security Chief

Patidongan, who previously served as a chief of security in Ang’s cockfighting farms and arenas, pointed fingers at Ang and two others—Eric Dela Rosa and Engineer Celso Salazar—as key orchestrators in the alleged abductions of the cockfight enthusiasts (sabungeros) who went missing between 2021 and 2022.

“Mr. Charlie Atong Ang, Eric Dela Rosa, and Engineer Celso Salazar are the masterminds behind the disappearance of the sabungeros,” he claimed.

Patidongan detailed how Dela Rosa monitored cockfights and reported instances of cheating to Ang, who would then allegedly instruct his men—including Patidongan—to detain those involved.

“Atong Ang is the main mastermind. He’s the one giving the direct orders to ‘clean up’ the sabungeros,” he stated.

Gretchen Barretto Allegedly Knew What Was Happening

According to Patidongan, actress Gretchen Barretto, who is often seen in public with Ang, was “100% aware” of the operations.

“Lagi silang magkasama ni Mr. Atong Ang. That’s why I believe she knows everything. I’m asking her to cooperate,” he said.

Why Speak Out Now?

Many questioned why Patidongan waited years before revealing these explosive allegations. He said his trust in current PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre III gave him the confidence to come forward.

“I came into the light now because I believe General Torre cannot be bribed. He is a man of integrity.”

Despite being one of the accused, Patidongan denied personal involvement in the actual abductions, insisting he was simply following orders as a farm manager.

“I had no hand in the disappearances. I was just following commands, nothing more.”

Atong Ang ‘s Camp Strikes Back

In response, Ang’s legal team announced plans to file a formal complaint against Patidongan before the Office of the Prosecutor in Mandaluyong. They also accused Patidongan of attempting to extort P300 million in exchange for retracting his statements.

But Patidongan firmly denied this, claiming Ang even offered him a document to sign for recantation—along with a monetary incentive—which he refused.

“He gave me a paper and offered money. I declined. My life and my family’s safety are on the line. I can’t be bought,” he emphasized.

He then issued a direct challenge to Ang:

“Stop hiding under your mother’s skirt. Face the consequences of your actions.”

A Plea to President Marcos

Patidongan concluded by appealing to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., urging him to intervene and help bring justice to the families of the disappeared sabungeros. NOWTREND

“To our dear President, I ask you to order a thorough investigation. The families of the victims deserve the truth and justice.”

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